Autonomy: A Moral Good, Not a Moral Obsession

Abstract

While acknowledging the value of respect for autonomy as a means of\nestablishing moral independence for the individual, Callahan sees a danger in\nmaking autonomy the moral goal of a society or of a system of medical care. \nHe discusses its shortcomings as a form of subjectivism that may end up being\nused as a justification for selfishness. Accordingly, autonomy should be\nconsidered a necessary but not a sufficient condition for a moral life; what\nis needed as well is a broader ethic that incorporates obligations to others\nand builds bonds of community. (KIE abstract)